ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder

Cause

Decreased glucose metabolism.

Reduced brain metabolism effects attention, handwriting, motor control,

and inhibitions of responses.

What does this mean for the individual?

• ADHD is only a problem if it creates a problem in the person’s daily life

• Studies are not yet specific, nor thoroughly researched

• Everyone may feel as though they have ADHD at times, especially if over-stressed

ADHD Diagnosis

“Developmental disorder of behavioral inhibition that impairs the development of self-regulation (executive functioning) and is not, as its name implies, chiefly a disorder of attention.” Johnson, 2002

Pooh Type-Inattentive ADD

“Classic Daydreamer”• Nice, lives in a cloud• Easily distracted• Short attention span to a task that is not

interesting• Often late• Frequently misplaces items • Easily bored

Tigger Type-Classic ADD

“Tigger likes to bounce…cause bouncin’ is what Tiggers do best.”

• Easily distracted, inattentive• Has LOTS of energy• Can’t still still• Restless• Talks loudly and excessively• Very impulsive• Has trouble waiting

Eeyore-Type Limbic System ADD

“Thanks for noticin’ me.”

• Inattentive

• Chronic low-grade depression

• Often negative

• Low energy

• Hopeless and worthless feelings

Rabbit Type-Over Focused ADD

“Rabbit tend his garden…and don’t bother him.”• Trouble shifting attention• Inflexible• Oppositional and/or Argumentative• Frequently stuck in loops of negative

thoughts• Compulsive• Controlling, obsessive, perfectionistic

Piglet Type-ADD with Anxiety

“He is a great friend, but he sure scares easily…”

• Trouble shifting attention

• Excessively worried

• Easily startled

• Obsessive

• Extremely nervous and insecure

Common StrengthsThe “Hunters” (not the farmers) of the Worlds

• Constantly monitoring their environment• Able to change course on a moment’s notice• Flexible, ready to change strategy quickly• Tireless, capable of sustained drives when

focused on a goal• Visual/Concrete thinkers, clearly see a a

tangible goal even if not verbalized

Strengths Continued

• Independent

• Enjoys new ideas, excited

• Willing to take risks

• Decisive & straight forward

Meeting Needs

“When one improves performance and cognitive skills, they increase

the ability to manage their own behavior.” Stevens, 2006

Medication=Controversy

• Proponents-the brain needs medication to support the problem with focus

• Research by the National Institute of Mental Health concluded that combined treatment, including medication and behavior therapy resulted in significant improvement